Messi bids farewell with a goal and assists, showered with love by teammates

Lionel Messi graced his final match in the Argentina jersey in his signature style. During the 3-0 victory over Benin, the Argentine legend contributed a goal and two assists; as the final whistle blew, he was showered with affection by teammates, opponents, and match officials alike.

The 39-year-old Messi took the field before a crowd of over 85,000 at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires for this farewell match. It marked his 208th and final international appearance for Argentina.

After a goalless first half, the Argentina captain changed the complexion of the game in the second half. Nicolás Otamendi scored the opening goal from a Messi corner, and Nico Paz subsequently extended the lead off a pass from him.

Towards the end, Messi found the back of the net himself via a penalty, bringing his international goal tally to 126. Following the goal in his farewell match, chants of "Messi, Messi" once again echoed through the stands.

An emotional farewell after the final whistle

As soon as the match ended, teammates surrounded Messi, embracing him one by one. Benin's players and the match officials also stepped forward to offer their congratulations.

The farewell atmosphere extended beyond the pitch; a special drone show was organized in the sky to honor Messi. Earlier, the entire stadium had witnessed fireworks, the national anthem, and emotional tributes from the spectators.

After the match, Messi expressed that wearing the Argentina jersey for over two decades had been a source of immense pride. He also spoke of the deep emotion he felt regarding the reality that he would no longer take the field for the national team.

A 21-year international chapter comes to a close

Messi concluded his 21-year international career with Argentina. He bowed out as the country's all-time leading goalscorer and most-capped player, having recorded 126 goals in 208 matches. Throughout this long journey, Messi played a pivotal role in leading Argentina to two Copa América titles alongside the World Cup. Thus, the victory against Benin was not merely a friendly match; it also marked the formal conclusion of one of the most memorable chapters in Argentine football.